Moving beyond the high chair is a big milestone in your child’s development and signals greater independence, but it is important to ensure the transition is both comfortable and safe. As your toddler grows, their desire to do things like a big kid becomes stronger, including sitting at the table with the family. A great way to start is by introducing a booster seat. Booster seats allow your child to sit at the dining table while still offering support and safety features like straps or a backrest. Look for models with non-slip bottoms and secure attachments to adult chairs to prevent tipping or sliding. This setup maintains the feeling of security they were used to in their high chair, while also giving them a sense of inclusion and maturity. It also helps to place the booster on a stable, non-swivel dining chair to minimize movement and risk. Make the experience enjoyable by allowing your child to participate in setting up their new spot at the table. Let them choose a placemat, special cup, or their own set of utensils.
These small touches can make them feel excited and proud of their new role. Many parents wonder when to stop using high chair, and maintaining a similar mealtime routine can help make the change feel less overwhelming. Continue using familiar mealtime cues and positive reinforcement. Praise your child for sitting nicely and eating with the family, and offer gentle reminders if they become distracted or try to climb down. Safety remains a top priority during this phase. Always supervise your child at the table, especially in the early days of transitioning. If your child is especially wiggly, ensure the booster has a three-point harness or belt system to keep them safely seated. Avoid cushions or makeshift boosters that aren’t designed for dining safety, as they can be unstable. If your child is ready to sit without a booster, make sure their feet can rest flat on a footrest or the floor to give them balance and stability. Children who dangle their legs may be more likely to squirm or slide out of their seat.
Encourage good posture and mealtime habits by demonstrating how to sit properly and interact respectfully at the table. Toddlers learn quickly by watching adults, so modeling table manners and patience goes a long way. Transitioning out of the Riverbaby high chair is also a chance to foster communication and connection. Sitting together as a family and engaging in light conversation can turn mealtime into a bonding experience. Every child’s readiness for this change is different, and it is okay if the process takes time. Look for signs such as the ability to sit steadily, interest in eating at the table, or complaints about the high chair. Respond to your child’s cues with encouragement and patience. Moving beyond the high chair doesn’t need to be rushed it is about finding the right moment and creating a setting where your child feels safe, comfortable, and included.